[Adrenal myelolipoma: about a case]

Adrenal myelolipoma is a rare benign non secreting tumor. It is often unexpectedly detected. Pathophysiologically, it is adrenal cortex cell metaplasia into reticuloendothelial cells, resulting from infection, chronic stress or adrenal gland degeneration. The mean age at diagnosis is late forties. Histologically, the tumor is composed of mature fat tissue associated with normal haematopoietic tissue. Tumor echogenicity depends on the predominance of the greasy or myeloid component. Its diagnosis is based on CT scan that identifies the fat percentage. However, these radiological aspects may lead to diagnostic confusion with kidney angiomyolipoma, lipoma and liposarcoma, hence the key role of MRI. Surgical resection of myelolipoma is usually performed and is indicated when tumor is voluminous, compressive or at risk of hemorrhage. We here report the case of AL A, 75 years old, hospitalized for adrenal mass revealed by right back pain radiating to the right hypochondrium, without signs of endocrine hypersecretion. Clinical examination showed sensitivity of the right lumbar fossa. Pheochromocytoma and corticosurrenaloma assessment was without abnormalities, including 24-hours urinary methoxyl derivatives and dexamethasone suppression test. The patient underwent coelioscopy; anatomo-pathological examination showed adrenal myelolipoma.